Multi-purpose user authentication device

Abstract

A multi-purpose user authentication card that combines the functions of one-time passcode generator, storage components and smart card components in a single compact device. A microprocessor generates the one-time passcode, which is displayed on a screen for 30-60 seconds. A smart card performs basic encryption and decryption to allow the user to gain access to a protected external resource. An independent, rechargeable power source allows the card to switch between an active mode, a standby mode and an off mode.

1 . A multi-purpose authentication device, comprising: 
 a main memory;    a processor coupled to access the main memory; and    an access code generating means located in the processor for generating a one-time access code associated with a single user's identity, for correlating authentication protocols with the access codes stored in the memory and for communicating the authentication of the user's access to an external protected resource.    an independent power source operationally connected to the processor.    a communications controller for interfacing to an external processing device.    
   
   
       2 . The device of  claim 1 , further comprising a smart card coupled to the processor through a controller for generating cryptographic keys, for performing encryption, decryption and signing of the single user for gaining access to the external protected resource.  
   
   
       3 . The device of  claim 2 , wherein said smart card is provided with a programmable ROM.  
   
   
       4 . The device of  claim 3 , wherein said programmable ROM is EEPROM.  
   
   
       5 . The device of  claim 3 , further comprising an auxiliary memory for storing user credentials and a controller for interfacing with external hardware, the main memory, the smart card and the processor.  
   
   
       6 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein said processor controls operation of the device between an active mode, a standby mode and an “off” mode.  
   
   
       7 . The device of  claim 1 , further comprising a display screen associated with the processor.  
   
   
       8 . The device of  claim 7 , wherein said processor controls operation of the display screen for displaying a passcode for a predetermined period of time and for de-activating the display screen upon passage of the predetermined period of time.  
   
   
       9 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein said processor is operationally connected to a control button for activating the processor and generating the passcode upon demand.  
   
   
       10 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein said communications controller uses a USB interface  
   
   
       11 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein said independent power source is a rechargeable battery.  
   
   
       12 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein said independent power source is a replaceable battery.  
   
   
       13 . A multi-purpose authentication device, comprising: 
 a main memory;    a processor coupled to access the main memory;    an access code generating means located in the processor for generating a one-time access code associated with a single user's identity, for correlating authentication protocols with the access codes stored in the memory and for communicating the authentication of the user's access to an external protected resource;    a non-volatile storage memory coupled to a controller for providing an interface of the processor to the external protected resource; and    a smart card operationally connected to the controller for providing encryption and decryption functions and enabling identity management of the user.    an independent power source operationally connected to the processor    a communications controller for interfacing to an external processing device.    
   
   
       14 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said smart card is provided with a programmable ROM.  
   
   
       15 . The device of  claim 14 , wherein said programmable ROM is EEPROM.  
   
   
       16 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said processor is operationally connected to a control button for activating the processor and displaying the one-time passcode upon demand.  
   
   
       17 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said power source being de-activated after a pre-determined period of time.  
   
   
       18 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said processor is coupled to a display screen for displaying the user's authentication code upon demand.  
   
   
       19 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said communications controller uses USB communications interface bus.  
   
   
       20 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said independent power source is a rechargeable battery.  
   
   
       21 . The device of  claim 13 , wherein said independent power source is a replaceable battery.